KENNEWICK -- This is my favorite column of the year -- reflecting on the more than 1,000 wines tasted in 2008 to come up with my top 10 list.
During the past 10 years I've had an array of wines make my list, including Rieslings, ice wines, two Merlots, two Cabernet Sauvignons, a Syrah, a sparkler, a red blend and a Cab-Merlot, but not a Chardonnay.
This time, my favorite is a gorgeous Chardonnay by Januik Winery.
Januik 2006 Cold Creek Vineyard Chardonnay, $28 -- Exceptional balance and creaminess with butterscotch and citrus essences. Great finesse. Serve with a scrumptious omelet.
Snoqualmie Vineyards 2006 Winemakers Select Riesling, Columbia Valley, $8 range -- This sweet but balanced Riesling with 6.5 percent residual sugar is a great backyard sipper. Think honey and spice pears and apricots. Great with fruit.
Barnard Griffin 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, $17 -- A superbly balanced Cab. Aromas of cedar and sweet spices give way to attractive chocolate, currants and black cherries. Goes with a New York steak.
Hogue Cellars 2007 Pinot Grigio, Columbia Valley, red label, $6 to $7 -- This is a refreshing white wine with vibrant fruit flavors and crisp acidity, which makes it versatile to pair with seafood.
Gordon Brothers 25th Anniversary Red, Columbia Valley, $45 -- Smooth with toasty mocha aromas and a complex blend of berries and cherries laced with chocolate. How about a hand-dipped chocolate truffle?
Chinook Winery 2007 Cabernet Franc rosé $14.99 -- Rose color with essences of fresh Rainier cherries and a dry, crisp finish. Try with smoked salmon.
Columbia Crest, 2005 Walter Clore Private Reserve Red, Columbia Valley, $35 -- Incredibly showy, opulent black fruit, toasty oak and tremendous balance. Match with a slow-roasted prime rib.
Barrister Winery 2006 Cabernet Franc, Columbia Valley, $27 -- Inviting dark berry aromas with soft tannins and a luscious berry finish that stays on the tongue. Delightful with a grilled lamb chop.
Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut, Columbia Valley, $10 to $12 -- Perfect balance with crisp flavors of citrus and apples with a light toast. Serve with artichoke Parmesan dip.
Terra Blanca Winery, 2003 Estate Syrah, Red Mountain, $20 -- Big, bold and balanced with flavors of plum jam and a hint of citrus and pepper. Wonderful with pasta.
* Bob Woehler has been writing about Pacific Northwest wines since 1978. E-mail him at bwoehler@charter.net or check out his past columns at www.winepressnw.com.
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